Customer Reviews

Blue Pine Trees

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I picked this album out of a bargain bin sometime in the mid- to late-70's, though I cannot recall why. The name Unicorn was unlikely to have inspired me, nor would have the hideous US artwork (which featured a cartoon unicorn made out of the letters of the name, much like the critters on the PBS kids' show Word World). Whatever the reason - maybe I read something about them somewhere - I did pick it up and rather liked it a lot.

Years later I lost it somewhere in a move, along with a number of other lps, and could never find it again. A few years ago I started looking for it on CD, only to find that the only available versions were really pricey imports. Too pricey for my blood, frankly. I sort of gave up looking. I stumbled across this new, domestic release only recently and I am delighted that I did.

This is, in fact, better than I remembered it. Very stylish country/folk/rock with wonderful harmonies, simple and direct production courtesy David Gilmour (yep, THAT David Gilmour) and most important, a collection of first-rate songs. The remastering is first-rate and the sound is cleaner and brighter than I remember.

There is nothing earth-shattering here. Unicorn were not great innovators, they were a solid band playing a British take on country rock, a somewhat more laid-back version of what a lot of pub rockers were doing at the time. The calling card, beyond the fine playing, is the set of strong songs, mostly by Kenny Baker (NOT that Kenny Baker). Fans of the Byrds, Poco, CSNY, the Burrito Brothers and others of a similar nature will find much to like here. This will feel right at home in your collection.

Includes really nice liner notes detailing the history of the band up to this (1974) point, and a bonus track (European b-side).